Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and arch of the foot. Pain management specialists and podiatrists often recommend weight loss as a way to reduce the pressure and tension that can lead to plantar fasciitis. Obesity can cause pain in the feet due to the extra weight they must support during daily activities. If you are overweight and have heel pain, it is important to speak with a podiatrist who can provide strategies to help prevent the development of plantar fasciitis.
At South Sound Foot & Ankle in Olympia, Washington, Mark Hopkins can assess ankle range of motion, offer physical therapy exercises, and suggest shoes or insoles to help improve ankle function and prevent plantar fasciitis from developing or worsening. He can also provide guidance on activities that are least likely to aggravate the plantar fascia, such as swimming and biking. Weight loss helps relieve pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia, which in turn can alleviate several painful foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis and Morton's neuroma. Losing weight while suffering from plantar fasciitis is entirely possible, and can even be enjoyable, if you are diligent in incorporating lifestyle changes.
Unfortunately, staying active and losing weight while experiencing heel pain adds some unique challenges to an already challenging task. If you have any of the main risk factors for plantar fasciitis, it is important to call South Sound Foot & Ankle or request an appointment online. In general, the symptoms of plantar fasciitis will diminish and disappear with proper treatment and fascia support.
